Introduction
Debuting in 1917 and released to the public in 1919, the Cartier Tank Normale was designed by Louis Cartier as the first Tank variant after he was inspired by the shape of the Renault tanks he saw on the Western Front during WWI. Perhaps one of the most recognizable pieces of horological design to ever be created, the Tank’s rectangular shape, svelte proportions, and timeless aesthetic have enabled it to earn a top spot within the horological hall of fame. Amongst the plethora of models that belong to this iconic collection is perhaps the purest distillation of its design, the Tank Normale that we have here. True to the original, this Tank Normale features the same classical white dial and case sides that Cartier’s original design had. These case sides, called “brancards”, extend past the horizontal portion of the Tank’s bezel and stretch to form its lugs as they curl down to hug the wrist. The same watch that Louis Cartier designed all those years ago, it was the Tank Normale that spawned the now-legendary collection and all of its associated models such as the Tank Francaise, Tank Cintree, Tank Louis, Tank Americaine and so on.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
V 7.5
Est. value range
$4,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Cartier
Dimensions
18.5mm
Model
Tank Normale
Movement
Manual-wind
Reference
N/A
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1931
Condition
Good
Material
Enamel-filled 18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Eggshell
THE DIAL
Featuring all of Cartier's design tenets, this example's eggshell dial sports exploding black Roman numerals around a minute track and blued steel hands.
THE CONSTRUCTION
While typically made of 18kt gold, this Tank Normale features enamel-filled brancards that give it a visual twist that is unlike anything else Cartier did at the time.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in good overall condition. Case is well worn due to age, with smoothed edges and surfaces. The right enamel brancard has a small chip on the upper edge that can be seen around the upper right lug. The caseback still retains its original serial numbers and an engraving dating to 1931. The numbers are worn but still visible. The watch has an old refinished dial with some surface blemishes. It is fitted with possibly later epi-style hands. The watch comes with a vintage Cartier 18k deployant buckle that is wider than the lug width, and a later Cartier signed croc strap. Please note that the watch ticks at time of cataloging but the timing machine readout is very poor and a service is recommended.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
An exceptionally rare watch from the early days of Cartier's watchmaking exploits, this enamel-filled Tank Normale is certainly a grail for Cartier aficionados.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
